Chapter 22 – The Summoning

Chapter 22 – The Summoning

Dawn broke over the sect, painting the sky in shades of gold and crimson. Shen Tian stood on the highest pavilion, overlooking the vast sect grounds. The power surging through his veins was intoxicating—his Qi had never felt so refined, his body never this unshakable.

The night with Sister Mei had pushed him further. His cultivation had soared, and his Holy War God Qi had grown denser. He could feel the difference in every breath he took, in every movement of his muscles. Three realms. That was all that separated him from the Matriarch.

And now, fate had finally turned its eyes toward him.

A soft gust of wind swept through the courtyard. Then, an overwhelming presence descended.

BOOM!

A golden-robed elder materialized before him, his Qi pressing down like a tidal wave. It was a force that could crush an ordinary disciple into dust, but Shen Tian stood firm.

"Shen Tian," the elder's voice carried authority, laced with something almost… hesitant. "The Matriarch has summoned you."

The words hung in the air like a silent decree.

A flicker of interest flashed in Shen Tian's golden eyes. Finally.

Without hesitation, he straightened his robes and stepped forward. "Lead the way."

The Matriarch's Domain

The inner sanctum of the Thousand Jade Blossom Sect was unlike any place he had been before. The air was thick with divine energy, the walls carved with ancient runes that pulsed faintly. This was the heart of the sect, a place where only the strongest could stand.

And at its center sat her.

The Matriarch.

Draped in ethereal robes of crimson and gold, her presence was undeniable. She radiated an aura that was both alluring and untouchable, a force of nature in human form.

Shen Tian's gaze met hers without wavering.

A moment of silence stretched between them before she finally spoke.

"I've been watching you." Her voice was smooth, measured, but there was an undercurrent of something more. "You've grown… faster than expected."

Shen Tian smirked slightly but said nothing.

The Matriarch's fingers tapped against the armrest of her throne. "The city's Grand Tournament is approaching."

Shen Tian's eyes sharpened.

"The greatest sects of the region will send their most talented disciples," she continued. "It is an opportunity to prove your worth, to claim your place among the strongest of this generation."

Her gaze darkened slightly. "And an opportunity for you to gain something… valuable."

A subtle pause.

Shen Tian caught it immediately. There's something she isn't saying.

"Why me?" he finally asked.

A hint of amusement flickered in her eyes. "Why not you?"

Her answer was vague, but it didn't matter. He would take whatever challenge was thrown his way.

She leaned forward slightly, her aura wrapping around him like invisible chains. "Do you know what happens to those who fail?"

Shen Tian's smirk widened. "I don't intend to find out."

The Matriarch studied him for a long moment before a slow smile curved her lips.

"Good."

[Ding! New Quest Activated!]

• Quest: Dominate the City Tournament

• Objective: Defeat all opponents and claim first place.

• Rewards: +30 System Points, Advanced Weapon Mastery, ???

Shen Tian turned, his blood already boiling with anticipation.

The tournament would be his battlefield.

And he would not be stopped.

Pls bare w me as I said I have exams so my schedule is tight asf.